For many people, flying can be a stressful experience, yet it remains a necessary way to travel. To help reduce anxiety, AirlineRatings.com publishes an annual ranking of the world’s safest airlines. The latest review evaluated 407 carriers worldwide and considered factors such as fatality history, incident frequency, and results from government and independent safety inspections.
Topping the list for 2018 was Qantas, the Australia-based carrier, which earned the title of the world’s safest airline for the third year in a row. Across its 95-year history, Qantas has never recorded a fatal accident. The airline continues to invest in safety innovations, including the use of satellite monitoring for engines and systems that support automated landings.
The remaining carriers in the top 20 (presented in alphabetical order) are: Air New Zealand, Alaska Airlines, All Nippon Airways, American Airlines, Austrian Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific Airways, Emirates, EVA Air, Finnair, Hawaiian Airlines, KLM, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, SAS, Singapore Airlines, SWISS, United Airlines, and the Virgin Group of airlines.
When choosing an airline, considering published safety rankings alongside other factors such as maintenance records, regulatory oversight, and transparency can help passengers make informed decisions. Regular safety audits, investments in modern aircraft and technology, and strong operational procedures are key contributors to an airline’s performance on these lists.
Ultimately, while no travel method is entirely risk-free, annual safety assessments provide useful benchmarks. They highlight carriers that prioritize rigorous standards and continuous improvement, giving travelers clearer information when planning flights.